In an inspiring display of resilience, the couple, along with their five children, have turned to the community for support, raising an astonishing $40,000 through a Givealittle campaign for future funeral and care costs.
However, their story took a dramatic turn when the Ministry of Social Development questioned their benefit eligibility due to the donations, threatening to cut off their financial lifeline.
However WINZ have backed down due to the public backlash and negative publicity. Gloria Campbell of the ministry told Newshub the money pledged through Givealittle is not considered income or a cash asset because ‘Nykala and Rikki have not received it. We have not adjusted Nykala and Rikki’s benefit payments because of their Givealittle’.
